Racetrack casinos floated as tax-hike alternative

The state could reap nearly $1 billion next year if it allowed casino-style gambling at Arizona's racetracks.

Rep. Andy Tobin, R-Paulden, is shopping the idea as a way to win enough votes in the Legislature to balance the state budget without a tax hike.

The idea of creating so-called "racinos" has long been sought by Arizona's racing industry. Voters rejected it in a 2002 ballot measure.

Tobin has revived the measure as a way to salvage a budget solution from a Legislature that is stymied by the prospect of deep budget cuts to close a $3 billion deficit, as well as Gov. Jan Brewer's call for a temporary tax increase.

Introducing casino gaming at the tracks is a dicey proposition. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Gray, R-Mesa, called it a "non-starter" in the Senate.

It would take off the limits imposed on Indian casinos in gaming compacts approved by voters. That would let tribes expand their casinos as they see fit.